Dear colleagues,

Along with many of you, we have watched the events of the past week unfold in the United States, events which are compounding an already challenging time. We want to acknowledge firmly and explicitly that while the issue of anti-Black racism is at the forefront in the US, we cannot ignore that this reality exists here in Canada, and right in our own community.

Violence and discrimination against Black, Indigenous, and racialized peoples is embedded in all aspects of our Canadian society which unfortunately includes the health-care system. We have work to do. CAPN values and is strengthened by the diversity in our community and we are well suited to serve as a role model.

Addressing the issue of racial inequality is on all of us. It is our collective accountability not just to identify as anti-racist, but to do the work. Demonstrating through our words, actions, and behaviours, that we will not tolerate acts of racism in our community is the only way to effect positive, meaningful change. Please take a moment to think about your own position, what privilege you may have, and ways that you can make a difference. We are hopeful that together as a community, this issue will continue to be acknowledged as change will not happen alone..

Join us in acknowledging George Floyd, one of the many victims whose lives have been lost or irrevocably altered by systemic racism. We are deeply saddened that it has taken the death of yet another human life to move our collective conversation to a level that we hope may bring us closer to a more peaceful, equitable society.

CAPN Executive